AceShowbiz - The race for "The Batman" role is tight, with Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult still in the running for the coveted part. Words are both actors will have to go through a series of long audition process, including costume tests, screen tests, readings and meetings, before Warner Bros. execs make the decision of who will be the next Caped Crusader.

According to TheWrap's reporter Umberto Gonzalez as revealed via his Twitter page, the "Maps to the Stars" actor and the "Dark Phoenix" star are set to screen test in Batman costume later this week to make sure who is the best fit for the role. The update also reveals that filming is scheduled to begin in early 2020.

"BATMAN UPDATE: Robert Pattinson & Nicholas Hoult are screen testing for the role. I suspect they're screen testing in the Batsuit because Wardrobe Department will need full wardrobe test," reads the tweet. "Additionally, the film will now start production in Q1 2020."

Pattinson was previously rumored to be the studio's top choice for the part, but another report said that it wasn't a done deal. When asked about the casting rumors, the 33-year-old British heartthrob remained mum. "I am only answering questions about 'The Lighthouse'," he said during a press conference for his new movie "The Lighthouse" at the Cannes Film Festival last week.

He was also asked the same question during an interview with GALA Magazine, but he still refused to give an answer. "What can you tell us about being chosen to be the next Batman?" so the interviewer asked, to which Pattinson replied, "I'm sorry, but I absolutely can't talk about that."

Matt Reeves' "The Batman" will focus on a younger Bruce Wayne than he was in previous movies. It's reported that Richard E. Grant is cast as Bruce Wayne's butler Alfred Pennyworth, while Jason Clarke and Keri Russell will play Thomas and Martha Wayne respectively. Additionally, Toby Kebbell is said to star as Scarecrow, with Theo Rossi portraying Bane.